The Saints never made any attempt to re-sign Bullocks, their second-round pick in 2005. Although he started 51 games in four years, including the playoffs, he never capitalized on the potential he showed in his rookie season. He was inconsistent, especially in deep pass coverage.

Bullocks (6-1, 207) is still a gifted athlete, though, and he could definitely benefit from a change of scenery.

He might fit better in the Bears' Cover 2 system, where defensive backs aren't as often exposed in one-on-one matchups. He'll also get to face twin brother Daniel, who plays for Detroit, twice a year.

Bullocks lost his starting job at free safety to veteran Kevin Kaesviharn prior to the 2008 season but filled in over the last month after Kaesviharn went down with a neck/shoulder injury. The Saints are hoping Kaesviharn can return to a backup role this year if they can identify an upgrade at the free safety spot.

Veteran Darren Sharper is a top candidate to fill that void, but the Saints have shown no urgency in trying to sign him since visiting with him early last week.